Head Of Security Leader Of Machado Opposition Arrested Ahead Of Venezuelan Election

CarACAS - Venezuela's chief of security opposition leader Maria Corina Machado was arrested. This incident raises the question of whether the July presidential election will take place fairly and freely.

Reported by Reuters on Wednesday, July 17, the arrests came less than two weeks before the July 28 election, in which opposition coalition candidatetulo Gonzalez is far ahead of President Nicolas Maduro, who is eyeing a third term.

Machado was banned by the court from running in elections for alleged fraud offenses, which he denies, forcing his coalition to support Gonzalez, a former diplomat. Dozens of Machado allies have also been detained.

Venezuelan Vente movement said officials brought Machado's head of security, Milciades Avila, from the house he lives in.

"I warn the world about increasing Maduro's suppression of those working in campaigns or helping us in any part of the country," Machado said via X.

Venezuela's opposition has repeatedly denounced the arrests and other actions taken by authorities that they think are meant to harm election campaigns and hinder fair elections.

Avila has been accused of gender violence against a group of women who tried to attack me and mireo at a food store in Valencia last Saturday, he said.